FRITZ HANSEN [1877-present] FURNITURE COMPANY

Fuelled by some of the greatest creative minds of the 20th century, this Danish firm remains a powerhouse of the design world

- Catherine Coyle

What unites Arne Jacobsen, Hans J Wegner and Kaare Klint? Danish? Check. Born around the turn of the 19th century? Check. Each a collaborator with legendary furniture maker and entrepreneur Fritz Hansen? Check. If Hansen had been working today, he would certainly be deemed an influencer. Whip-smart and willing to take chances, he was not only a skilled craftsman but had a keen eye for talent and, along with his son Christian, identified key designers with whom he worked to create what are widely recognised as classic, iconic pieces. As the brand celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, reissuing a host of its products for the 21st century, there's no doubt that its enduring success is down to its founder's foresight and innovation.

Fritz Hansen grew up in Nakskov, a small town in the south of Denmark, where he trained as a joiner and cabinetmaker. At 25, he moved to Copenhagen, eager to set up his own workshop. It flourished, and his reputation as a clever designer who adapted pieces for changing modern trends attracted customers from all over the world. As the business grew, he found bigger premises in the city's Christianshavn district. When Hansen suffered poor health, Christian was brought in to help run things and it was he who suggested moving part of the production operation to Allerød, just north of the capital, closer to the forest and the railway line to gain access both to timber and easier distribution.